Medications

Sodium Phosphate Monobasic; Sodium Phosphate Dibasic enema

What is this medicine?

SODIUM PHOSPATE SALT (SOE dee um FOS fate sawlt) is a saline laxative. It is used to treat constipation or to clean the bowel before a colonoscopy.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Remove tip from enema bottle. Gently insert enema tip into the rectum. Squeeze bottle until almost all of the medicine is inside the rectum. Remove enema tip from the rectum and stay in position until the urge to evacuate is strong. Do not take doses that are larger than those recommended on the product label or otherwise directed by your healthcare professional. Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

irregular heart beat

rectal bleeding

seizures

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

bloating

dizziness

headache

nausea and vomiting

stomach pain

What may interact with this medicine?

aspirin

certain medicines used to treat high blood pressure, like captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, or candesartan, losartan, valsartan

diuretics

NSAIDS, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen

an unusual or allergic reaction to sodium phosphate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Do not use with any other laxatives unless your doctor tells you to. Drink fluids as directed to prevent dehydration. See your doctor right away if you do not have a bowel movement after using this medicine.